The last six weeks of winter are a trying time. The holidays have passed. The charm of a snowfall doesn’t quite feel the same. Most of us are ready to see the temperatures change and for winter to fade away. Despite that, winter is still in full swing. Cold temperatures, snowstorms, ice-covered roads, and winter hazards can arrive anytime.
Even the first few weeks of spring may contain traces of winter, including the occasional storm. Be ready. Here is how to prepare yourself for the end of winter.
Clean Air Filters
Before spring, clean or replace the air filters in your HVAC system. This keeps your indoor air quality clean.
Check Your Home’s Exterior
After the snow has melted a bit, you can navigate around your home and check for damage caused by winter storms. Look for cracks in your home’s structure, peeling paint, or loose siding. If you discover anything that needs immediate repair or will require a fix soon, make a note of it.
Examine Your Deck or Patio
Look at your deck or patio and repair damages, such as cracks or loose boards. Make a plan to address grime, mould, or stains that accumulated earlier in winter.
Inspect Your Roof
Inspect your roof for damage. Clear out any accumulated leaves or debris in your gutter. Ensure drainage paths are clear so that spring rains have somewhere to go.
Keep Liquid De-Icer Ready
Ice walkways, driveways, and roads are still risky as temperatures are freezing. Liquid de-icer is a solution used to prevent snow and ice accumulation by lowering the freezing point of water. It is an easy pre-treatment before a winter storm to protect your home.
Keep Winter Clothing Accessible
Don’t put your winter clothing into storage yet. Keep heavy coats, scarves, and gloves ready to be worn in case a winter storm unexpectedly hits.
Create a Bit of Spring Indoors
If you’re itching for spring, try to find ways to spruce up your indoors to look more like the new season to come. Surround yourself with fresh flowers, greenery, and cozy items for comfort in the last weeks of winter.
Keep Your Winter Emergency Kit
Do not pack away your emergency kit for winter. A snowstorm can still occur, and if there’s a power outage, you want to stay prepared.
Plan a Spring-Cleaning Schedule
Are you already hyped about spring? Create a checklist for spring cleaning with tasks organized by the room and by priority. This will keep you focused on an exciting spring rather than a winter that won’t let go.
Look for Cracks in Your Driveway
Assess your driveway or walkway for cracks, potholes, and damage. As the rainy season is about to set in with spring, work to repair any winter-related damages on your driveway that may have occurred.
Inspect Your Vehicle
Towards the end of winter, inspect your vehicle. Replenish coolant and fluid levels. Ensure your tire health is still strong. If any damage was incurred earlier in winter, consider scheduling a mechanic’s visit.
Spend More Time Outdoors
Even if you are not an ‘outdoors person,’ consider dressing for winter and taking a walk. This can help elevate mood and boost health. It’s also a chance to take a break from dry indoor air and see some nature, at least when the temperatures have dropped.
Inspect Pipes and Plumbing
Check for frozen or burst pipes. If you discover exposed pipes anywhere, insulate them with foam covers. If there are any late winter cold snaps, this will help prevent freezing.
Wash and Store Sports Gear
If you have winter sports and recreation gear that you’ll no longer use, wash it, inspect it for damage, and put it into storage. This is a must for any hockey player in your household.
Look for Winter Sales and Discounts
Many retailers will want to offload winter products, putting them on sale, discount, or clearance. Keep an eye out for these limited-time deals. You could save hundreds of dollars and start stocking up on materials for next winter.
Steer Clear of Contagious Illnesses
Late winter still carries a high risk of contracting contagious illnesses, such as COVID-19, the flu, RSV, the common cold, and other respiratory viruses. Wash your hands often. Consider wearing a mask. Eat well and hydrate. Keep your immune system strong.
Plan Outdoor Activities
Was there anything outdoors you wanted to do this winter that you didn’t get around to doing? Consider how to make the most of the remaining winter weather. Especially if you have kids, this might be a great time to make your last snowman of the season, throw down in a snowball fight, or enjoy winter-related community events or winter-friendly activities.
